Pineco: Complete Biography, Stats, Evolution, Lore, and Trading Card Info

Pineco, the Bagworm Pokémon, is a classic entry in the world of Pokémon, first introduced in Generation II’s Pokémon Gold and Silver. With its distinctive pinecone-like appearance and unique Bug typing, Pineco has become a memorable favorite among trainers and collectors alike. In this comprehensive biography, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Pineco—covering Pineco stats, Pineco evolution, Pineco lore, and even the Pineco trading card.

---

Pineco at a Glance

• Pokédex Number: #204
• Type: Bug
• Evolution Chain: Pineco → Forretress (at level 31)

Pineco stands out as one of the earliest pure Bug-type Pokémon, recognized for its explosive defense mechanisms and its evolution into the formidable Forretress.

---

Pineco Stats

Understanding Pineco’s stats is key for trainers considering this Pokémon for their teams. Here’s an overview of Pineco’s base stats:

Stat	Value
HP	50
Attack	65
Defense	90
Special Attack	35
Special Defense	35
Speed	15

Highlights:

• Pineco’s greatest strength is its Defense, making it resilient against physical attacks.
• Its Speed is notably low, so it often moves last in battle.
• With moderate Attack, Pineco can deal some damage, but its main role is often as a defensive wall or to set traps like Spikes.

---

Pineco Evolution

How does Pineco evolve? Pineco evolves into Forretress, a Bug/Steel-type Pokémon, at level 31. This evolutionary leap grants Forretress a secondary Steel typing, improving its resistances and drastically raising its competitive viability.

Pineco Evolution Chain:

1. Pineco (#204) – Bug type
   • Evolves into:
2. Forretress (#205) – Bug/Steel type
   • Evolution method: Level up to 31

Forretress retains Pineco’s robust defensive theme, gaining access to an even larger movepool and a unique typing combination.

---

Pineco Lore

Pineco’s lore is rooted in its natural camouflage and explosive defense. According to the Pokémon games and anime, Pineco hangs quietly from tree branches, resembling a pinecone to avoid predators. If disturbed or threatened, it detonates its outer shell in a self-destructive explosion, an ability mirrored in its signature move, Self-Destruct.

Pokédex Entries:

• Gold/Silver: “It hangs and waits for flying insect prey to come near. It does not move about much on its own.”
• Emerald: “A Pineco hangs from a tree branch and patiently waits for prey to come along. If the Pokémon is disturbed while eating by someone shaking its tree, it drops down to the ground and explodes with no warning.”

Pineco’s explosive nature is a recurring theme, and it’s often seen as a Pokémon best approached with caution. Its blend-in tactics and volatile defense make it unique among Bug-types.

---

Pineco in the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG)

Pineco has been featured in several Pokémon trading card expansions since its debut. As a Basic Pokémon card, Pineco typically has lower HP and simple attacks, reflecting its role in the main games. However, Pineco cards often synergize with Forretress cards for strategic depth.

Notable Pineco Trading Card Appearances:

• Neo Discovery: The first Pineco TCG card, featuring moves like “Tackle” and “Selfdestruct.”
• Unseen Forces, Secret Wonders, Lost Thunder: Subsequent sets added artwork and moves, emphasizing its explosive tendencies and synergy with Forretress.

Collectors appreciate Pineco trading cards for their nostalgic value and their role in bug-themed decks.

---

Why Choose Pineco?

Trainers interested in a defensive, trap-setting Pokémon often turn to Pineco for its high Defense stat and access to moves like Spikes, Toxic Spikes, and Explosion. In competitive battling, Pineco is a staple in Little Cup formats, where its stats and movepool make it a reliable entry hazard setter.

---

Fun Facts and Trivia

• Name Origin: Pineco’s name is a portmanteau of “pine cone,” referencing its shape and camouflage.
• Anime Appearances: Brock, a prominent Pokémon breeder and Gym Leader, caught a Pineco in the Johto region, using it in several notable battles.
• Habitat: In main series games, Pineco is commonly found by using Headbutt on trees, reflecting its arboreal lifestyle.

---

Conclusion

Pineco (#204) might seem unassuming at first glance, but its high defense, explosive moveset, and intriguing evolution into Forretress make it a valuable and memorable Pokémon. Whether you’re interested in Pineco stats for competitive battling, fascinated by Pineco lore, or a collector seeking the latest Pineco trading card, this Bug-type Pokémon offers something for every Pokémon fan. If you’re looking to complete your Johto Pokédex or add a reliable entry hazard setter to your team, Pineco is a top choice—just be careful not to startle it!